Betwixt The Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society

Inside the Witch Trials: Pendle | The Child Who Condemned Her Family

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Episode notes

People in the 17th century were at spiritual war with the devil. 

It was a time of huge upheaval. What became known as the witch trials soon followed.

In this first episode of a limited series, Inside the Witch Trials, we go back to the English village of Pendle in 1612, to find out how and why a nine year old girl was able to condemn her family to death, as witches.

How was magic viewed and used before the witch trials? What influence did the Reformation play in stoking fears and paranoia? And what became of the girl who stood up in court to accuse her family of witchcraft?

Kate is joined by historians Eleanor Janega, co-host of Gone Medieval, and Ronald Hutton.

This episode was edited and produced by Stuart Beckwith. The senior producer was Charlotte Long.

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Betwixt the Sheets: History of Sex, Scandal & Society is a History Hit podcast.